Saints step away from race for Butland

Southampton manager Nigel Adkins has insisted he is not interested in signing Birmingham City goalkeeper Jack Butland.

The Saints had been strongly linked with a move for Butland in the January transfer window, after struggling to find a consistent presence in goal for much of the season. But Adkins has insisted he is happy with the options currently available to him.

"We have a young goalkeeper in Paulo Gazzaniga, who is going to be the future of this football club," Adkins said. "We have two experienced goalkeepers in Kelvin Davis and Artur Boruc.

"I do not anticipate another goalkeeper coming in during this window."

The news could clear the way for Liverpool to sign the £6 million-rated goalkeeper, with Brendan Rodgers believed to be an admirer of the England international.

Birmingham have previously acknowledged that they will have to sell one of their prized assets should they receive an acceptable offer, as they bid to ease their current financial situation.